On Tuesday 21 June, Te Rūnanga-Ā-Iwi-Ō-Ngāpuhi hosted an event at our offices in Kaikohe for about 60 kaumātua and kuia, with the aim of promoting winter wellness.

We worked alongside the team from Te Hau Ora Ō Ngāpuhi, whose kaimahi and leadership in the hauora space kept so many of us safe these past two years. THOON set up a vaccination site in the carpark, and did wellness checks including high blood pressure, diabetes and bowel screening. Inside we had entertainment, giveaways, mirimiri, rongoā, kai, information stands from providers including the Rūnanga’s Kaitiaki Kauri team, and much more.

Our kaumātua kuia thoroughly enjoyed the entertainment by much-loved entertainer Max Cochrane, and a special performance from Ngā Moko a Rāhiri. Thanks also to our mete, Sophia Thomas, aka ‘Aunty Livey’ from Tautoko FM, for MC’ing the event. We also acknowledge students from Northland College, who gave their time to help with the event.

This was a great opportunity to engage with our kaumātua kuia as well as to work collaboratively and strengthen our relationships across the Rūnanga. We want to again acknowledge our funders, without whom this event would not have been possible. Ngā mihi ki a koutou to:

• Te Poari Hauoa Ā Rohe O Te Tai Tokerau (Northland District Health Board)
• Te Puni Kōkiri
• Te Hau Ora Ō Ngāpuhi

Here’s part of the performance by the awesome rōpū, Ngā Moko a Rāhiri.